Blackhawks bring back Bickell, Skille

July 24, 2010|By Chris Kuc, Tribune reporter

With Blackhawks general manager Stan Bowman trying to work out a deal with goaltender Antti Niemi before Thursday's arbitration hearing, the team will announce the signings of wingers Bryan Bickell and Jack Skille as soon as Monday.

Skille has agreed to a one-year contract worth $600,000 and, according to a source, Bickell's deal — reportedly for three years at just more than $1.6 million — will be announced at the same time.

Last Monday, Bowman said Bickell and Skille "are all going to be a part of (next season). In some ways it's time for them to get their chance."

Bowman is also said to be working to re-sign unrestricted free agent Jordan Hendry, but as of Saturday it's not expected any deal with the defenseman will be part of the Skille and Bickell announcement.